POST--READING ACTIVITIES

Students Will:

• Discuss how relevant the Confucian relationships are in modern times.
• Discuss the role of women in Confucian society compared to now
• Discuss what happens if one relationship is not followed as Confucius outlined.
• Identify different factors that may alter these relationships (ex. Greed, marraige...)
• Debate whether or not the adherence of these relationships would ensure stability in a society (Read quote below)
  

  "When the perfect order prevails, the world is like a home shared by all. Virtuous and worthy men are elected to public office, and capable men hold posts of gainful employment in society; peace and trust among all men are the maxims of living. All men love and respect their own parents and children, as well as the parents and children of others. There is caring for the old; there are jobs for the adults; there are nourishment and education for the children. There is a means of support for the widows, and the widowers; for all who find themselves alone in the world; and for the disabled. Every man and woman has an appropriate role to play in the family and society. A sense of sharing displaces the effects of selfishness and materialism. A devotion to public duty leaves no room for idleness. Intrigues and conniving for ill gain are unknown. Villains such as thieves and robbers do not exist. The door to every home need never be locked and bolted by day or night. These are the characteristics of an ideal world, the commonwealth state."

Extension Activities Students May:

• Change the way one of the relationships is depicted in the stories by either rewriting one of the stories in their own words or writing their own story
• Write a dialogue for one of the stories and perform it in front of the class
• Write about what they think are the five most important relationships in their lives, their home countries, or in American society
• Create a 5-part picture collage that will represent each relationship